Glow-in-the-Dark Jellyfish: A Sensory Craft for Kids with Autism

Sensory crafts are more than just fun—they’re powerful tools that can support children with autism through meaningful, hands-on activities. One standout favorite is our Glow-in-the-Dark Jellyfish craft. With its bright colors, gentle movement, and calming glow, this easy-to-make project is perfect for home, school, or as part of an ABA therapy or autism behavior support program.

Whether you’re a parent, educator, or ABA provider, this craft can be a simple and effective addition to your ABA services or sensory play toolbox.

What You’ll Need:

• Glow sticks (the small, snap-to-activate kind work best)

• Cupcake liners (plain or colorful)

• Ribbon (various textures add sensory richness)

• Clear tape or glue

How to Make It:

1. Prep the Tentacles: Cut ribbon into several strips. Curl them gently using scissors or your fingers for added movement.

2. Create the Jellyfish Body: Take a cupcake liner and flip it upside down. Tape or glue the ribbon pieces to the inside of the liner so they dangle beneath like tentacles.

3. Add the Glow: Activate a glow stick and place it inside or tape it securely under the liner to light up the jellyfish.

4. Play and Explore: Turn off the lights and watch your jellyfish come to life!

Sensory Benefits for Children with Autism

This craft supports several sensory systems, making it an engaging option for autism behavior support and ABA therapy:

Visual Stimulation

• The glowing effect of the jellyfish provides gentle visual input that can be soothing and captivating for children with autism.

Fine Motor Practice

• Cutting, curling, and taping ribbons supports fine motor development, a common focus in ABA services and early intervention.

Movement & Focus

• Watching the jellyfish’s tentacles sway provides calming movement cues that can help children regulate their focus and attention.

How It Supports ABA Therapy Goals

Incorporating creative play like this into ABA therapy can:

• Encourage task completion and following instructions

• Provide positive reinforcement through play-based rewards

• Support language development by naming colors, actions, and parts of the jellyfish

• Promote turn-taking and shared attention in group or peer settings

Tips for Success:

• Use glow sticks in a variety of colors for visual variety.

• Add textured ribbons (silky, bumpy, rough) for extra tactile input.

• Let kids personalize their jellyfish with stickers or markers.

Sensory crafts like the Glow-in-the-Dark Jellyfish are a fun, budget-friendly way to provide meaningful engagement and autism behavior support through play. Whether you’re a parent or a professional offering ABA services, incorporating crafts into your routine can build skills, spark joy, and make learning feel like magic.

Want more ABA-friendly crafts or sensory activities? Stay tuned for our next post or contact us to learn how we can support your child’s journey through personalized, creative approaches.